Papuan Logrunner

Large, dark sea duck. Breeding males have a colorful bill and white patches on the nape and forehead. Females and first-year males are dark brown with white patches on the cheek and face. Note large, thick-based bill to help separate from female White-winged Scoter. Breeds on lakes and ponds in northern Canada and Alaska; winters in flocks in harbors, bays, and other coastal waters, where dives for mussels and other aquatic invertebrates. Uncommon to rare inland, especially in migration. Frequently mixes with other sea duck species, especially eiders and scoters.

A unique forest malimbe often seen high above the ground, particularly fond of swamp forest, palm trees, and other areas near water.  Female is wholly black all over, while the male has bright red extending from the chest around to the back of the neck and up to the crown, surrounding a black throat and face. Found in small groups or with mixed-species flocks, sometimes with other species of malimbe. The combination of a red collar, black throat, and black vent make Black-throated Malimbe unique within its range. Song is a series of mechanical-sounding whistles and chattering notes, and calls include long rasps and harsh “check!” notes. 

Puffbirds are oddly-proportioned birds with rotund bodies and huge heads. Pied is small, black-and-white, with an obvious black breast band and a thin white eyebrow. Superficially similar to White-necked Puffbird, but much smaller with black forehead. Sexes alike. Perches conspicuously, often on a bare branch in the canopy or even on a telephone wire. Usually at the edge of the forest, overlooking an open area.